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Senator Gianaris Applauds Historic Passage of Marriage Equality Act

Queens, NY – Senator Michael Gianaris was proud to be one of the 33 votes in favor of the Marriage Equality Act, which passed the New York State Senate on Friday, June 24 by a vote of 33-29 and was signed into law by Governor Cuomo.

New York is now the sixth state in the nation to legalize same-sex marriage, giving LGBT couples the same domestic and human rights as heterosexual couples.

“Today, New York reclaimed its mantle as the nation's human rights leader. I am proud to be one of the 'yes' votes that made marriage equality a reality in our state,” Senator Gianaris said. “May our example set the tone for the rest of the country so that all Americans can enjoy the same rights and privileges.”

Similar legislation was introduced in 2009 but was defeated in the Senate. The passage of the legislation in the Senate this year is a milestone in New York State as 29 Democrats were joined by 4 Republicans voting in favor of marriage equality.

The legislation was passed by the State Assembly last week.

The historic vote took place as Pride Weekend 2011 kicked off in New York City.